You are here:

Ballet/flexibility

Advertisement

Expert: - 7/22/2011


Question
Ballerina
Ballerina
Hi, (Ihave a bunch of questions to ask)

I am very flexible (the most flexible in all my ballet class)i can do the splits i can kick my leg up straight towards the ceiling i can grab my foot and hold it up too, i was wondering if there was anyway i would be able to do what is shown in the picture i provided , (not en pointe though) i would like to be able to hold my leg up behind me just like her.

Thanks very much ;)

Answer
There is a simple exercise for this, to do after a barre or even more warm up:

Do a developpe to arabesque. Lower the leg an inch, and then lift it a little higher than it was, working up to ten and then twenty times each side. This will strengthen all the leg and back muscles involved.

This is quite strenuous, so have your position checked for accuracy.

Make sure you relax and stretch afterwards, to release the muscle tension.

Regards, Dianne  
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThanks once again, I have so many questions and you are definitely the one to ask<3


  • Ask a Question

Dianne M. Buxton

Expertise

I can answer questions about ballet positions, ballet movements and ballet technique, pointe shoes and pre pointe exercise, mens training, ballet diet, general health issues related to dance, artistry, performance, modern dance, rehabilitation from injuries, and teaching ballet. I have taught ballet, choreographed, produced and directed dance companies. For any answers related to health questions I will offer my experience, and give references to information, but I also automatically include "see a professional".

Experience

dancer, ballet and modern, choreographer, dance teacher, artistic director, ballet mistress, producer

Organizations
I.S.T.D. Actra, Actors Equity

Publications
http://ezinearticles.com http://ballettoeshoes.blogspot.com http://streetarticles.com http://balletconnections.com

Education/Credentials
Graduate of the National Ballet School of Canada where I studied Cecchetti, Bournonville, Vaganova and Graham technique. Taught at the National Ballet School of Canada, York University, George Brown College and Harvard University.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.